They may have gone viral for a surreal TV interview about a local crime, but sisters Paula and Bridgette Powers are much more than just a quirky viral moment. The identical twins from Queensland have dedicated their lives to caring for Australia’s native birds—and their story is deeply intertwined with the legacy of one of the country’s most beloved conservationists.
The Powers twins recently caught global attention after a 90-second segment aired on Channel 7 News. The clip, which showed the pair speaking in perfect unison and dressed identically, detailed their eyewitness account of an alleged carjacking near their Sunshine Coast home. While the bizarre synchronicity of their responses drew laughs and fascination, many viewers had no idea about the twins’ lifelong dedication to wildlife rescue.
A Life of Service to Wildlife
Paula and Bridgette Powers are not your average viral sensations. For years, the duo has operated Twinnies Pelican and Seabird Rescue, a not-for-profit organization committed to rehabilitating injured or sick coastal birds. They’ve cared for everything from pelicans tangled in fishing lines to young ducks in need of rehoming. In fact, just days before their unexpected TV fame, the twins shared a heartwarming update on social media showing more than a dozen ducks they had raised and safely released back into the wild.
What truly sets their story apart, however, is their mentorship under none other than Steve Irwin—the legendary Crocodile Hunter. Trained by Irwin himself, the twins credit much of their hands-on skills and passion for animal care to the late conservation icon. Their calm, unified approach to rescue work reflects not just their close bond as siblings, but also a deeply instilled ethos of compassion and respect for nature.
A Viral Moment with a Serious Backstory
The recent media spotlight came after a dramatic roadside incident. While driving on Steve Irwin Way, the Powers family encountered a vehicle that had crashed. As their mother approached the car to offer help, the driver—covered in blood—allegedly pulled a gun. Paula and Bridgette described their panic in perfect harmony during the interview, saying, “Our hearts started to pound. And I said Mum, where’s Mum?” They recalled how their mother managed to distract the man long enough for all three to escape safely.
The man involved has since been charged with multiple offences, including armed robbery and dangerous driving causing death. Thankfully, the Powers family was unharmed—but the encounter added another dramatic chapter to the twins’ already extraordinary story.
Not Their First Time in the Spotlight
This isn’t the first time the sisters have gone viral. Back in 2016, they charmed audiences on Good Morning Britain, where they were interviewed by Piers Morgan and Susannah Reid. Once again, their identical speech patterns and infectious laughter stole the show. At the time, the twins acknowledged how deeply connected they feel. “Sometimes we do feel like just one person,” they admitted.
In the wake of their recent interview, the Powers twins have been featured in countless online posts and even a parody by Australian comedian Devon Poole. But as amusing as the public finds their synchronized quirks, the twins remain focused on their mission.
How You Can Help
While they’re currently taking a short break from interviews, Paula and Bridgette are still active on social media, sharing updates on the birds they care for. Their passion is real, and their work is vital—especially as Australia’s native wildlife faces increasing threats from habitat loss and human interference.
For those inspired by their story, donations to their rescue organization can go a long way in helping them continue their work. Whether it’s rescuing pelicans, raising orphaned ducklings, or rehabilitating injured magpies, the Twinnies have proven that two hearts—and four hands—can make a world of difference.
From being mentored by Steve Irwin to becoming a viral phenomenon, the Powers twins are a one-of-a-kind duo whose story is equal parts heartwarming and heroic.
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